“The only way to truly Love is to let go of what you are afraid to lose and Trust that what’s meant to be will stay.”
I do have to admit, that life is a little scary sometimes. Actually, it’s REALLY scary. We have this idea of how our lives are meant to be…who should be in them, how we work, where we play… but realistically, we really have no idea. Things can be taken from us as fast as surprises can be thrown into the mix. How are we supposed to stay grounded & guided? We fight for things & people we believe in, we try each & every day to learn something new, & we eventually figure out to think with our heads & our hearts together. Sadly, life doesn’t come with a rulebook or remote control. We can’t go to Chapter 8 to read about “How to fix a broken heart” & we can’t press rewind to turn back time & fix our mistakes. But we have NOW..the present, to say the things we never said, to speak up for how we feel, to take control…so that we will hopefully live a life with minimal regrets & burned bridges. Going into the future, what we don’t know is scary, but we do know how our lives are now & no matter what, we can save ourselves & whatever else we would regret losing in the future.
Morgan Page – Fight for You (Sultan & Ned Shepard Mix)
“So what do you want and what are you thinking?/Isn’t it about time you stuck up for me?/But what you can’t see is we’re under siege/And I only fight because I believe/Not gonna share you no/I’d fight for you”
Agnes & LMFAO – Release Me (Party Rock Remix)
“I say release me /’Cause I’m not able to/Convince myself /That I’m better off without you”
David Guetta – Gettin’ Over (Sidney Samson Remix)
“Wish I could spin my world into reverse just to have you back again, there’s no gettin’ over, there’s just no gettin’ over you”
Ben Preston ft. Susie – Remember Me
“Will you remember me, like I remember you”
Moby – Wait for Me (Laidback Luke)
“I’m gonna ask you to look away/I love my hands, but it hurts to pray/Life I have isn’t what I’ve seen/The sky is not blue and the field’s not green/Wait for me”
“You know I care what’s deep inside/Any hurt you choose to hide/But you should know how I feel/You should know that I like you/I want to be openhearted/Why can’t you see/You gotta be open or we’ll never get started”
Just recently, I suffered from some loss in my life… As I use this blog to post about music, I also find it important to connect the music with raw emotion…my emotions. Often times when we lose something or someone beyond our control, it seems what’s lost is irreplaceable. Other times, when we have chosen to eliminate something from our own lives, it’s not the sense of getting rid of that something that hurts, but the act of letting go and saying goodbye. From my standpoint, I am grateful for every person & every situation that has come into my life, good or bad. I have explored my emotions, I’ve learned invaluable lessons, & most of all… I’ve learned to face fear. Fear of making the right decision, fear of loss, fear of pain, fear of the unknown. This post today is very nostalgic, but also hopeful. To those we’ve lost, to those we’ve loved, to those we’ve yet to meet on this journey. Every day is an adventure, every day may not be perfect, but every day is a new chance to find yourself and to no longer feel lost.
Bomb the Bass – Black River (Gui Boratto Mix)
“I don’t know what I’ve done Or if I like what I’ve begun But something told me to run And honey you know me it’s all or none
There were sounds in my head LIttle voices whispering That I should go and this should end Oh and I found myself listening
See I thought love was black and white That it was wrong or it was right But you ain’t leaving without a fight And I think I am just as torn inside
‘Cos I dont know who I am, who I am without you All I know is that I should”
After much anticipation, my newest mix is FINALLY here! 50 minutes full of club bangers from Laidback Luke, Afrojack, Bingo Players, ImanoS, Bob Sinclar, and Bodyrox… this mix has it all: House, Electronica, and Progressive-House. Here is the tracklisting for the mix in case you wanted to download individual songs:
Jewelz – Get Down
Wynter Gordon – Dirty Talk (Laidback Luke remix)
Christian Marchi – Got my Eyes on You
DJ PP – Miami Vice
Fred Lila & ImanoS – Be Loved
Jason Derulo – Whatcha Say (Bingo Players remix)
Laidback Luke – Till Tonight
Bodyrox – Shut Your Mouth
Dario Nunez – Love to Shega
Afrojack – Better Run
Yolanda Be Cool – We No Speak Americano
Afrojack & Gregor Salto – Ill Be There
Brooklyn Bounce, Alex M., Marc Van Damme – Crazy (Max K. Remix)
Bob Sinclar vs. Daddy S Groove – Kiss my Agony
Timo Garcia ft. Sam Obernik – Swing Thing (Fool for You) Anaolog People in A Digital World remix
Ane Brun – Headphone Silence (Henrik Schwarz Remix)
Not really sure where to start for this one! I spent 5 days and 4 nights in Miami to experience the one and only WMC. I stayed at the Eden Roc hotel, which was the sponsored hotel for the WMC events. I have to say, coming downstairs every morning to a DJ spinning in the lobby was pretty nice! That evening, I went to LIV at Fountainbleu where Laidback Luke was performing. This is probably one of my new favorite clubs! The club was PACKED. After leaving LIV, I went to Space to check it out and meet up with Rachael Starr who was spinning that evening. Thursday I went to Robbie Rivera’s Juicy Party at Nikki Beach…minus the $80 entrance fee & $30 beach towels (yes I’m serious), the music was worth the money; however, I’ve come to call this Nikki Sand, seeing as though the beach has been fenced OFF and you can’t even see the ocean. 😦 
I got to stand directly to the right of Robbie Rivera during his set & even got a free Juicy Beach Robbie t-shirt! After getting back to the hotel around 8pm (already exhausted) I was put to sleep by the beats of Steve Angello dj’ing at the Eden Roc pool party. That evening it was back to LIV. Along with Friday and an obscene amount of rain & the Circoloco party at Eden Roc (not too impressive). The first day of Ultra was finally here.
Tiesto at UMF
David Guetta at UMF
As I entered Ultra Music Festival, I was not only given a super cool VIP wristband, but an Ultra mini backpack full of dj mags, cds, and of course the Ultra Tshirt! Excited and giddy, I went straight to the VIP section for the main stage. Even though VIP was shockingly small (considering how many people went to the event and bought VIP), the airconditioned “lounge” downstairs and upstairs balcony provided great service and views of the stage. After I watched LMFAO perform, it was time to get some food – this is when all hell broke loose. When I returned from the VIP section after eating, they refused me entrance. The police, fire marshalls, and security guards had blocked off VIP (where I left my sister and friend) and were not letting ANYONE in or explaining the situation. As the crowd for VIP grew tremendously (prob 100 ppl waiting to get into VIP), I sadly and angrily watched the amazing David Guetta perform. Amidst being pushed, having drinks poured on me, & having someone almost steal my camera, the David Guetta performance was extremely memorable. His light show/effects paired with his warming ability to speak genuinely and openly with the crowd (Oh and Will.I.Am – they debuted the new Gettin Over remix with Fergie) were the cherry on top of his music. The rest of the evening I enjoyed Afrojack (well only heard this one because I was getting crushed in the herd of angry VIPS), Wolfgang Gardner, and Tiesto! Adventures after Ultra did not stop, as my friends and I walked 2 hours to get a cab that was willing to drive us to our hotel!
Swedish House Mafia at UMF
Deadmau5 at UMF
Saturday was definitely a much better day overall, the weather was beautiful and I was able to enjoy the beach! Expecting the worst as I returned to Ultra, I was ready for ANYTHING! Luckily, drama was minimal that evening. On the main Ultra Stage I was able to watch the very excited and giddy Armin Van Buuren (he definitely danced more than I did), Swedish House Mafia, & Deadmau5. Swedish House Mafia pleasantly surprised me and I am now a loyal fan! The trip ended with bad weather (Welcome to Florida) & a signature from Deadmau5 himself before we all boarded the plane together! Overall, the trip definitely had its ups and downs, but was worth it. These djs are extremely talented, they value and appreciate their fans, and most importantly you can tell they LOVE what they do to the core.
I’m not sure I’ll be attending another WMC (my wallet votes No), but I’m glad to have went and experienced the magic of music!
As the week of Winter Music Conference 2010 is finally here, DJ’s & fans are preparing to attend one of the biggest global music events in Miami, Florida.
When: Monday March 22 – Sunday March 28 
Where: Miami/South Beach, FL
One of the biggest events: Ultra Music Festival The lineup for this is OUT OF THIS world amazing. Probably your best one-stop shop for hearing the top DJ’s! (Yes I shelled out too much money to pay for VIP tickets to this) See the FULL lineup here.
For more information go to the Official Winter Music Conference Site or go to WMC 2010 Guide for an exclusive list of parties, events, and helpful tips on what to wear, how to save money, & how to get into the best parties during the conference. You can also follow them on Twitter for the most current updates WMC Live on Twitter.
Instead of preaching to you about how wonderful this event will be and how personally I think that house/electronica music on the beach is my personal heaven, I am going to pick my favorite artists that will be at this conference and list their best songs (aka my favorites- again)! Here we go…
Tiesto: ft. Jasefos – Do What U Want (Max Graham Remix), ft. CC Sheffield – Escape Me, In the Dark (Dirty South Remix)
David Guetta: vs. The Egg – Love Don’t Let Me Go vs. Walking Away, ft. Akon – Sexy Bitch, Everytime We Touch,Love is Gone, Stay (Fuzzy Hair Remix)
Deadmau5: Calvin Harris – I’m Not Alone (Deadmau5 Remix), Ghosts n Stuff, Hi Friend!, Morgan Page – Longest Road (Deadmau5 Remix)
Armin Van Buuren: If You Should Go (Inpetto Remix), Zocalo
Benny Benassi: Satisfaction, Fischerspooner – Never Win (Benassi Mix), Love is Gunna Save Us
Kaskade: Move for Me, Angel on My Shoulder, I Remember, 4am (Adam K & Soha Radio Edit), Late Night Alumni – Empty Streets (Kaskade Remix)
Laidback Luke: Need Your Loving, Leave the World Behind, John Legend – Heartbreaker (Laidback Luke Remix), CeCe Peniston – Finally (LBL Remix), Break Down the House, Be
Bob Sinclar: World Hold On, Love Generation, Together, Rock This Party
Happy Saint Patrick’s Day everyone! Unfortunately, I can’t say “Kiss Me I’m Irish!” but I can say “Kiss Me…bc I’m the DJ” 🙂 In light of all the drinking festivities going on tonite (or for those ambitious ones… could be during the day), I have elected to post music about DRINKING! Whether you’re sipping on green beer at an Irish Pub, decadently dressed in GREEN so that you won’t get pinched, or feeling brave and doing an Irish jig, I wish you a Happy & Safe drinking extravaganza and hope you will throw these songs on to your ipod for some music that will get you in the mood!
In case you DIDN’T know the story:
Legend St Patrick’s Day is held on 17 March, which is believed to be the day he died. Patrick was captured by Irish raiders from his home in Wales and reputedly herded sheep on the slopes of Slemish in County Antrim during his captivity. He managed to make his way home after six years, but later returned to Ireland with a mission to convert the Irish to Christianity.
Legend has it that he used the shamrock to teach the concept of the Holy Trinity and banished snakes from the island. It is unlikely there ever were any snakes in Ireland, but the snake story may be a reference to serpent, a symbol of evil, and the driving out a reference to Patrick’s mission to rid Ireland of pagan influence.
Irish Saying:
There are many good reasons for drinking,
One has just entered my head.
If a man doesn’t drink when he’s living,
How in the hell can he drink when he’s dead?
Songs:
Benny Benassi – I Am Not Drunk
Mr. V – Put Your Drink Down (Bob Sinclar Remix)
Florence + The Machine – Hurricane Drunk
Since there will be lots of KISS ME, I’m this or that here’s one perfect for the kissing occasion! Bob Sinclar vs. Daddy S Groove – Kiss My Agony
These abstract wordless movements / they start off cells that haven’t been touched before / these cells are virgins waking up slowly / My headphones they saved my life / Your tape it lulled me to sleep (Bjork – Headphones)
They’re your escape, your journey, your solace as you put them on and they channel you into that musical realm that belongs to you and only you. They are the medium that takes you from reality to fantasy. As they rest on your head generously pumping sounds into your ears, you are able to bury yourself in a mood, daydream, or even temporarily run away into a sea of music notes.
Since these objects of musical transference play such a big part in our entire listening and DJ’ing experience, I wanted to share some pictures of my favorite headphones!
So time to take out those headphones, whatever color, shape or size they are, download these songs, and get excited!
SayCet: Opal (Error :: Love – Opalowsky Remix)
I really don’t know where to begin for this post… the title today pretty much speaks for itself. I feel inspired to write about what’s been happening in my life recently and to sum it up one word it would be change. I’m sure we all have varying feelings and opinions on change – most of us, included myself, don’t like major changes occurring in our lives (especially change beyond our own power). But sometimes, change isn’t so bad. Change can be the precursor to new beginnings and may also lead to the bettering of ourselves and our lives if we are able to accept it. As always, I have listed some lyrics in these songs that I feel are appropriate for this post.
Di-Rect – Times are Changing (East and Young Remix) Everybody is in a separate zone /All together but we’re so alone/Staring out through a wall of glass/Look away because it’s gonna crash
Bobina – Time and Tide (Gareth Emery Mix) “Every water bonds, where it meets the coast line.
The birth of a brand new day…”
Schiller, Nadia Ali – Try (Thomas Gold Remix) “Believe it’s true, you know that I try to make you feel alright”
Fenech Soler – Stop and Stare “Stop and Stare because we don’t know where we’re going”
**Morgan Page – Only Human “After all we’re only human, flesh and blood we’re only human…”
It was a Valentine’s party to remember. For all those couples and singles that attended the Valentine’s Eve Mansion Ball in Bel Air on Saturday night, the evening was filled with lots of love and might I add… music and dancing. From sipping champagne in the main house, guests were then lead to a beautifully lit Valentine’s themed courtyard. They were then directed into a decadent, red-infused ballroom with a giant checkered dancefloor and stage.
As guests entered the lavish room complete with roped off VIP areas and a fully stocked open bar, Florence and the Machine’s “You’ve Got the Love” and Shwayze’s “Heart and Soul” warmly greeted the crowd. My dj setup was located directly beneath a cozy arch, where I was constantly joined by as what I like to call: DJ D’Lish’s favorite groupies (Definitely had some additions that nite)
As the night progressed, I played a variety of genres…lots of new Timbaland remixes, David Guetta, Pitbull, Jay-Z, Black Eyed Peas, Ke$sha, Bob Sinclar, and of course the fabulous Lady Gaga. Coordinating the playlist for this event was somewhat challenging as I wanted to include a little something for everyone. To my surprise, a majority of people repeatedly came up to the DJ booth to request House and Electronica songs and and artists, which of course made me very happy!
As the crowd started winding down at a very EARLY 2:30 am, they danced to Young Money’s Bedrock and Drake’s Best I ever Had. To end the night (and to get home at a decent hour) I closed with some of my personal favorite classic love songs: Unchained Melody and Fool’s Rush In. Definitely brought back memories of high school slow dancing!
Overall, this was a very successful event. I couldn’t have done it without the D’Lish groupies for support and constant dancing!
For more pictures from the event and DJ D’Lish info, visit my Facebook Fan Page
Also visit LeFashion Monster for a review of V-day Street Style outfits from the evening.
Roses are red, violets are blue, Dj D’lish has something for YOU! From the candy hearts, to the dancing teddy bears and bouquets of flowers, to the decadent chocolates and the revealing lingerie, Valentine’s Day means something different to everyone. If you’re single, you’re probably saying “Cupid is stupid” & complaining about how every day should be I love you day (which I kind of agree with). If you’re in a relationship, you’re most likely spending time with a loved one. Regardless of how you feel about Valentine’s day, it does get everyone thinking about romance and relationships. So whether you’re with your best friend, boyfriend, or girlfriend, share your love through the songs, because…Music is Love.
Special Valentine’s Day quotes:
“Love is a symbol of eternity. It wipes out all sense of time, destroying all memory of a beginning and all fear of an end.” Unknown
“In melody divine,
My heart it beats to rapturous love,
I long to call you mine.” Unknown
“If you have Love, you don’t need to have anything else, and if you don’t have it, it doesn’t matter much what else you have.” Sir James M. Barrieve
Slower Songs:
Progressive House Songs:
In my spare time, I often like to write. This is a short poem I wrote last year and I wanted to share it with you for this special occassion!
My Valentine’s Day Poem: Together As One 
Hold me close but let me breathe
Walk beside and not in front of me
Touch me softly, touch my soul
Reckless abandon without letting go
Feel my heartbeat race with time
Pumping love to you who’s mine
Talk of life and laughs of joy
Tickle me inside like a child’s toy
Stare with longing, I’ll gaze at you
Forever knowing, I want you
Kiss me with the power of sun
Embrace our life, together as one
Most of the time when writing new posts, something unique has to inspire me. I want to write based on my own experiences. I want to share with you how I see and experience the world through music. Sometimes I’m happy, sometimes I’m sad, and sometimes I’m confused. I believe the rawest human emotions, whatever they may be, are ones that can be embodied in music. This concept remains important to me as I listen to songs… not merely for their musical quality and originality, but for the story they tell, and the emotions they evoke through their lyrics. I do admit I am a romantic… and even though it is not quite Valentine’s Day yet (yes I’ll do a sappy post for that), I want February to be a month of LOVE. Young love, old love, romantic love, friendly love, sibling love, family love, pet love, and of course most importantly… love of yourself. The song selection for today is a little random (kind of how I’ve been feeling when it comes to love and emotion the past couple of weeks), but I’m sure you will enjoy.
Dragonette – Pick Up the Phone (Van She Remix)
Pick up the phone Pick up the phone Congratulations I’m having visions of us
Breaking everything on our way outta town Were going places you’ve never dreamed of
Florence + The Machine – Hardest of Hearts
There is love in your body but you can’t get it out It gets stuck in your head, won’t come out of your mouth
Sticks to your tongue and it shows on your face that The sweetest of words have the bitterest taste
Erik Hassle and Ellie Goulding – Be Mine (Robyn Cover)
It’s a cruel thing you’ll never know all the ways I tried It’s a hard thing faking a smile when I feel like I’m falling apart inside
And now you’re gone it’s like an echo in my head And I remember every word you said
La Roux – Quicksand (Boy 8-bit Remix)
You’re the upsetter Stroking my hand What’s my position?
I don’t understand Am I your possession? Am I in demand?
Oh when you turn to me I’m in the Quicksand
Nouvelle Vague – This is Not a Love Song
La Roux – In For the Kill (Skream’s Let’s Get Ravey Remix)
They say we can love who we trust
Oooh but what is love without lust?
Two hearts with accurate devotions
Oooh but what are feelings without emotions?I’m going in for the kill
I’m doing it for a thrill
I’m hoping you’ll understand
And not let go of my hand
***Also- Very excited to DJ my friend’s upcoming Valentine’s Eve Party! Check out the INVITE on Facebook 🙂
As I prepare for my next DJ event in late February, as well as the coming Spring (my favorite months to be outside with a cocktail and some lounge music), I have been searching high and low for what I like to call … European Lounge! This “genre” of music, as I’ve termed it, can come from all over the world and contain lyrics in different languages. I’m especially attracted to middle eastern and latino lounge, but also enjoy French and Portuguese as well! I hope these songs can take you to a place of relaxation….whether its a small cafe in Paris or the seaside of the Mediterranean.
(All Songs contain links)
Cibelle – Green Grass [Album: The Shine of Dried Electric Leaves]
Wax Tailor – Seize the Day [Album: Cafe Archy – Lounge Collection 5]
Thievery Corporation – Until the Morning [Album: The Richest Man in Babylon]
Rupa and the April Fishes – Maintenent [Album: Cafe Archy – Lounge Collection 5]
Natacha Atlas – Just Like a Dream [Album: Cafe Archy – Lounge Collection 5]
Grooveyard – Seven Mile [Album: Ministry of Sound Chillout Sessions Vol. 8]
Her Majesty’s Sound – Les Larmes [Album: Seriously Good Music: Cocktail]
“Before there was an industry or an association, there was a belief…in music. That belief led to a mission: to unify, lead and strengthen the global music products industry and increase active participation in music making.”
Today is the opening day of the 2010 NAMM show (The National Association of Music Merchants) in Anaheim, CA. The show is from January 14-17 at the Anaheim Convention Center. Invitations open only to industry professionals & their guests.2010 NAMM Show
About Naam: NAMM is a not-for-profit association that unifies, leads and strengthens the $17 billion global musical instruments and products industry. NAMM’s activities and programs are designed to promote music making to people of all ages. NAMM is comprised of more than 9,000 Member companies.
With a plethora of international retailers, manufacturers, and instruments, the 2010 NAMM show promises to offer the most innovative, newest products to a slew of anxiously awaiting consumers. With 250 exhibitors, the show is also expecting a substantial amount of celebrity appearances, such as Taylor Swift, Jason Mraz, Yoko Ono, Quincy Jones and more! The NAMM show is not only a place to view these new products, but a playground to explore and learn about the most recent technologies through training seminars, meetings, and personal mentoring.
Among other events this MLK weekend, I am VERY excited to attend the NAMM show! (I will hopefully be posting pictures after I attend on Saturday). Other exciting events are happening this weekend in LA that I’d like to share:
Saturday January 16: Laidback Luke @ Avalon Hollywood
Saturday January 16: Blank & Jones @ Circus Disco Hollywood
Monday January 18: Tom Novy & the EC Twins @ Playhouse Hollywood
For more information go to: GIANT CLUB
What is Sextronica? It is my newest mix of 2010! Why should you download it? 1) It’s SEXY 2) It’s ELECTRONICA 3) It has the newest hits of 2010 4) You will not only be singing and swaying along to these heart bumping beats, but deliriously dancing all night long!
Here is the tracklist:
1. Fatman Scoop feat. DJ Class – New Years Anthem
2. Lil Jon feat. Claude Kelly – Oh What a Night
3. Yeah Yeah Yeah’s – Heads Will Roll (Club Mix)
4. Alessandro Viale Feat. Vaanya Diva – Sweet Little Thing (Jerma & Highpass Mix)
5. Melleefresh Vs. Deadmau5 – Sexslave
6. Ian Carey – Shot Caller (Vandalism Mix)
7. Groovenatics – Just Can’t Get Enough (Original Mix)
8. Eddie Thoenick – In My Head (R3hab & Addy Van Der Zwan Remix)
9. Beyonce and Lady Gaga – Video phone (My Digital Enemy Mix)
10. Sandy Hunter – Rare Tap (2000 and One Cut)
11. Lily Allen – Not Fair (Style of Eye Remix)
12. Larry Tee, Afrojack, Roxy Cottontail, David Guetta – Nasty Toyfriend
13. Madonna – Revolver (David Guetta Extended Mix)
14. Pain, Gubellini – Shake it Up
15. Sebastien Leger – The White Island
HERE IT IS!!!!!!Hope u enjoy! xoxo D’Lish
***Also check out DJ D’Lish’s mention in LE FASHION MONSTER BLOG
My deepest apologies for such a long absence throughout the end of December. I hereby promise to not leave you all waiting any longer for new music and new posts! First and foremost, I wish each and every one of you a Happy New Year! Even though it feels like it’s just another day, the start of 2010 is finally upon us. At the end of December, my family unexpectedly lost a loved one. Even though this tragic event is still a wound waiting to heal, it has inspired me to theme this post today about living in the moment. May 2010 be another beginning for you, a clean slate where you can map out your aspirations and dreams, forgive and forget, listen and learn, and most importantly a chance for you to love…
As usual, some inspirational quotes to get started:
T. S. Eliot – “For last year’s words belong to last year’s language and next year’s words await another voice. And to make an end is to make a beginning.”
D.H. Lawrence – “The living moment is everything.”
Songs:
Alessandro Viale – Sweet Little Thing (Jerma & Highpass Mix) Itunes Link
Lily Allen – Not Fair (Style of Eye Remix) Link on HypeM
Lucky Charmes – Go (Original Vocal Mix) Link
**Ian Carey – Shot Caller (Vandalism Remix) Link
Sebastien Leger – The White Island (Original Mix) Link on YouTube
Massive Attack – Paradise Circus Link on HypeM
Djdlish 